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The Magpies go into the game on the back of a goalless draw against Port Vale and Barclay says Notts need to help their flair players make a difference.

“It’s going to be another test and a similar one to our last match,” said the defender.

“We didn’t get going and play the way we wanted but we dug in and coped with what Port Vale threw at us, so it was a point gained and a good clean sheet.

“We know we can perform better, though.

“We’re feeling more solid and need to continue that while getting the forward players on the ball more so they can express themselves.”

Aside from a 4-1 defeat to Newport, boss Neal Ardley has done a good job of stemming the flow of goals that were a real problem in the first half of the season.

Ben Barclay. (Image: @JMS Photography)

Notts still have the worst defensive record in the league, but they have at least stopped the maulings that were taking place which saw the likes of Yeovil and Cheltenham win 4-0 and 3-0 at Meadow Lane respectively.

Barclay says he understood that he would be under the microscope having been added to the backline in the transfer window but says the experience in front of him has been crucial.

“There was a bit of pressure to come into a team who were conceding goals and to help turn it around,” he said.

“It’s good experience, though, because these games are different to Under 23s football – the three points matter and you’re playing for the club, the fans and the others on the team.

“All of that adds pressure, which I’m enjoying.

“As a defence we are all learning together and it’s important to have the experience of Jim O’Brien and Michael Doyle in front of us who help us through.

“Neil Cox works with us on being solid, communicating and staying organised while the gaffer wants us to be positive and look to play forwards.”

Barclay is now set to make his 10th league appearance at the weekend and has played every minute so far since signing.